Although I have had anxiety and depression for decades I have always put off trying any prescription meds as I have a huge fear of them. Mainly because I also have awful IBS as well and most of the side effects of antidepressants state diarrhoea and gut issues as one of the main side effects (any exacerbation of my already bad gut issues would tip me over the edge).
However, my anxiety has been sky high for some time now and it’s preventing me from living a normal life (despite exercising, eating well, doing meditation and hypnotherapy etc).
Has anyone has success relieving their anxiety with meds or even off the shelf stuff without experiencing horrible side effects, especially digestive ones?
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rustydog
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Any antidepressant messes with my guts. I added on LDN for autoimmune issues but it pleasantly improved my mood at the same time. Very little side effects if any. You have to find the right time of day to take the med as it may disturb sleep at the onset, but goes away quickly. It is crazy that a fraction of one medicine could have such a positive benefit.
I have tried so so many. Lexapro seems to be the best for the panic disorder I have. Trintellix was a nightmare for me. Wellbutrin made me feel disconnected and have horrible depersonalization, sertraline made me fat but worked good, buspar is a nice addition, doesn’t help high anxiety days but does take the edge off, hydroxyzine used to work really well for sleep but doesn’t do much anymore. Ativan is a lifesaver if your doctor will prescribe it. It reminds me what it feels like to be anxiety free and a goal to strive for. All of the SNRIs I’ve tried were awful for me. I thought I was ok but people around me said it made me strange. On the natural side of things I can’t recommend magnesium, Reishi and ashwaghanda enough as well as lemon balm and L-Theanine. CBD is wonderful to take the edge off, but make sure you speak with someone qualified to help you pick a good strain. I go to a shop owned by a pharmacist. She has always steered me right. On bad bad days I will vape a CBD/THC strand called OG Kush. My favorite. But it’s legal in my state. Also THCA flowers will put you to sleep like a baby.
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What do you do for income when you have anxiety & depression and meds aren't working? 
Interested in hearing how your intrusive thoughts started and what meds you take. Would be helpful.
When in the day do you take your meds? 
Anxiety Meds and Pain Meds
Are you taking Anti Depressants?
